Text: Genesis 18:3-5 KJV
Further Reading: Genesis 18:1-5
And said, My Lord, if now I have found favour in thy sight, pass not away, I pray thee, from thy servant: Let a little water, I pray you, be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree: And I will fetch a morsel of bread, and comfort ye your hearts; after that ye shall pass on: for therefore are ye come to your servant. And they said, So do, as thou hast said.
Genesis 18:3-5
MESSAGE
Today we are going to carefully consider hospitality as a noble Christian lifestyle. One way to show that you are a true child of God is by being hospitable.
The dictionary defines hospitality as “the act of being friendly and welcoming to guests and visitors”. The Bible encourages believers to do this service to everyone irrespective of age, gender, or race.
Many believers today have lost that noble way of living, and in the process lost many valuable opportunities and blessings. They are not hospitable, they do not welcome strangers. What they do not know is that they are blocking the channels of their blessing. Some hide under the guise of the security challenges of the present times.
In our reading of the day, we will see how the man Abraham through hospitality received the blessing. Let us examine the story closely, Abraham was relaxing outside the tent when he saw three men coming his way. The Bible said, he ran to meet them and bowed himself to the ground.
Abraham saw these strangers, he welcomed them and ask to wash their feet, gave them a temporary lodging to rest for a while before continuing their journey and decided to set the best of meals before them. Look closely at what this man did and imagine you are welcomed that way by a stranger, I am sure you will bless the person with your whole heart.
These acts of love, kindness, and care can not be overlooked even by God. Jesus said anyone who gives a little cup of water to His disciples will never lose his reward (Matthew 10:42). How hospitable are you? Are you welcoming and friendly to guests?
The Bible showed us that God does not only bless only the believers for this act of kindness but even unbelievers. Paul en route to Rome encountered a storm and after days of fiery trials, they made it to Barbarian Island. These people took care of Paul and all that were on the ship, but they also got diverse miracles and blessings. I do not doubt that they received the greatest blessing, salvation (Acts 28:1-10).
Don’t forget how Mary and Martha welcomed the Lord to their home every time and Jesus gave them the greatest of miracles by raising Lazarus.
Always be open to welcoming and entertaining strangers especially true servants of God. This will open the gateway of blessings for you.
REFLECTION
Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
Hebrews 13:2
Always be kind and welcoming to strangers, it will open the doors of your long awaited blessings.
PRAYER
Father, please grant me the heart of hospitality.
